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Is this:
a) Matching
b) Coordinating






Correct answer: a
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That first one was really hard.  This is Coordinating.











Tough to tell any difference. I know.  This is tricky.  Let's try another one.
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Is this:
a) Matchy-Matchy
b) Coordinating
c) Matching


Correct answer: a, Matchy-Matchy.  Otherwise known as Matching Gone Wrong!
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Coordinated.
One of the most difficult parts about getting dressed is choosing which colors and patterns to put together.  There are the simple options; monochromatic, two tone, or my favorite, the dress (all you have to choose are shoes and accessories!).  But looking stylish entails being able to coordinate more than two colors or patterns.  So here are a few tips.
  1. Look for inspiration rather than relying on your imagination.  Sometimes, if you're standing in front of your wardrobe, and you're TRYING to create an outfit with colors or patterns you wouldn't normally wear, you're going to end up looking exactly that way.  Like you were trying too hard.  So look outside your wardrobe for color pairings that speak to you.  It could be anything!  I recently received a lovely thank you card from a friend.  On the front were 12 circles, each made up of 3 color-coordinated rings.  They were fabulous pairings of various oranges, limes, tans, khaki's, and turquoise.  The card immediately found its way into my Style File!  I could have never put those together in such a perfect way and now I'll just glance at the card for inspiration.  It might be an outfit you see in a magazine, an ad for something wholly unrelated to fashion, or even one of your husband's neckties!  If the colors coordinate in a way that inspires you, take note!
  2. When pairing different patterns in the same outfit, one should be dominant and all others recessive.  If you have a bold pinstripe, choose a subtle floral.  Bright polka-dot top?  Quiet herringbone trouser.  And remember, bold patterns in neutral colors still act as a neutral.  Don't be afraid to add color with your other pieces, shoes, and accessories.
  3. Walk your wardrobe.  Grab the piece you're wanting to wear.  Let's say a tan skirt.  Now, walk along the rest of your wardrobe holding that piece up against your other clothes.  When something jumps out at you, go with it!  As long as it's not the exact same color, of course.  (See photo #1.)  Maybe you found a pale green shirt.  Now take both pieces and do the walk again.  When you find a third, your outfit is done!  That light blue fitted jacket will be perfect!
  4. Take baby steps.  If you always choose black pants and your cream colored twinset, choose a different colored layer to go under the cardigan.  The next time, choose a pant other than black.  Or start by adding color with your accessories or shoes; such as a bright beaded necklace or scarf.  It's ok to go slow and build your confidence.  Before you know it, you'll be whipping up beautifully coordinated outfits and making it look effortless.
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To make sure you got it - let's try it again.

Is this:
a) Matching to the extreme
b) Coordinating 

Correct answer: do I really have to spell it out?
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Coordinated.




Just kidding!
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THIS is Coordinated.
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Bonus Question for extra credit!

Is this:
a) Coordinating
b) Matching




Correct answer - TRICK QUESTION!  It's neither.  I don't know WHAT this is!
 


Comments

ImogenLamport link
07/24/2009 03:20

Interesting post - lots of good tips - I wish my wardrobe was big enough to be able to 'walk' along - I can look at my whole wardrobe without moving!

Reply
Jesslyn
07/25/2009 08:55

Imogen - What an honor to have you comment! Thank you! I also see all of my wardrobe without moving. I could have gone with "hold the article of clothing up next to the other articles of clothing" but the alliteration of "walk the wardrobe" was much more fun. I tell myself a small wardrobe has its pros. Right? Things don't get lost and never worn. Your creativity is pumped up working with fewer pieces. etc.
Thanks again!

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